Through My Eyes is a photography series that I’m starting. It forces me to organize my travel photos, find inspiration, and get out there to shoot.

This is how I see the world. This is how I see people, landscape, life. This is how I feel, how I love, how I cry.

But I want you to take part in this project as well. I want you to go out there with your camera. Be brave, and capture the moment. Embrace the day. Savor life. See the world.

I will post a collection of photos every other Saturday with a common theme. Hopefully, throughout the next week, you will be adventurous, take out your camera, and shoot something inspired by my shots. Send me one to two of your photos along with a brief story. Find the image that captures how you see the world.

Every following Saturday, I will post your pictures. Show me your world. Show me how you see. Through your eyes.

You do not need a fancy camera or expensive gear to have a vision. Be creative and have fun.

The first theme is “Children.”

Laos is a beautiful country, relying on the powerful Mekong River to fuel its economy. Out of all the countries I visited in Southeast Asia, Laos was the most laid back. People just did not do much. Even during rice planting season, they still spent most of their day sitting around, relaxing and hanging out with family. Despite being one of the poorest countries in Southeast Asia, Laotians are one of the friendliest people. They’re willing to help, take you in, and lend what little they have.

My favorite part about traveling is meeting the children. They’re always fascinated by the camera and most want their pictures taken. Some of the places I visited only had electricity from 7 to 9pm, so you can only imagine the children’s excitement at seeing their faces on a digital screen. There’s nothing more satisfying than seeing a genuine smile on a child’s face. It’s magical.

These children humble me. They have very little, yet are happy and content. Even though they sometimes assume the role of an adult, they do so with very few complaints. They are self-sufficient, even at a young age. They are amazing because they truly appreciate every single thing they have.

Now that you’ve seen through my eyes, I want to see through yours. Go out there and find your inspiration. Find what moves you. And share it! I can’t wait to see your work. You can email your pictures to me at halfofjess@gmail.com.